Define "lackluster". I'm sure Ronnie could place in the top six until he's 50.
Sure, Ronnie could still place in the top ten - not top six - for another few years, but this is exactly the problem. Placing in the top ten at the Olympia is tremendous for any bodybuilder: it gives you endorsement contracts, publicity and, for many bodybuilders, it is the epitome of the career. But not for a Mr.Olympia. A guy who wins the Olympia has something more important than endorsement contracts and money to think about: legacy. Losing the Olympia completely ruins the "mystique" of a Mr.Olympia; the aura of untouchable greatness is gone. Ronnie has the choice between preserving the little mystique he still has left by not competing at this year's Olympia and losing his endrosement contract, or losing his aura by being defeated again and preserving his contract. It's bad that Ronnie chose not the former.
SUCKMYMSUCLE
